Certificate Program
Data Visualization Certificate
The Data Visualization certificate program teaches students to use effective design principles and analytics methodologies for information design. Students will learn to illustrate data stories, further develop technological prowess (data processing languages & techniques), answer scientific questions, and communicate important observations through the visual representation of information. A particular emphasis will be placed on understanding the ethical, and philosophical concepts behind the production, promotion, and accessibility of data.
Cost
$1,115 per credit hour
All classes in this certificate are 3 credits. A total of 18 credit hours are required.
Required Courses
DATA 101 Foundations for Information Design
In this course, the history of data visualization, and its key periods of discovery and transformation will be covered. Students will build literacy in reading data-informed visuals, as well as exploring the tools that can create them. An emphasis will be placed on ethical and moral implications of data collection and utilization.
DATA 102 Data Analytics Methodologies
This course is an introduction to methods that allow for formulating observations from datasets. Popular platforms and programming languages will be leveraged to prepare students for the larger world of analytics. Topics will include how to format tables, collect data, prepare surveys, and interpret statistics. Concepts will be reinforced by personally driven data projects.
Tools: Tableau, OpenRefine, Excel, Carto, Gephi
DATA 301 Information Design Project Studio
In this course, students will start with a singular area of interest and use their skills in the full life cycle of data collection and visualization to build a large-scale cumulative project. At the end of this course, participants will have a highly refined portfolio piece(s) that will showcase a diverse set of skills and interests.
Tools: Python, Excel, R, Tableau, OpenRefine, Javascript, QGIS, Carto, Gephi
Select 3 of these 4 classes
DATA 201 Data Manipulation and Documentation
In this course, students will explore methods for data cleaning and pulling information from online sources and interfaces. Students will learn to document their efforts, deal with imperfect data, and use popular data programming languages to create static or interactive graphics. A particular emphasis will be placed on answering key data questions.
Tools: Python, Excel, R, Tableau, OpenRefine
DATA 202 Interactive Visualization
In this course, students will learn web-based tools and programming languages to create custom visualizations. Projects will fully immerse users in information storytelling or explore mathematical themes.
Tools: Javascript
DATA 203 Information as Material, Form, and Installation
Students will experiment with popular art-based materials to create objects, sculptures, and mixed-media works that communicate data observations. Themes of space, color, and concept will be explored culminating in a final installation or design piece.
DATA 204 Spatial Analysis and Map Making
This class is an introduction to building, analyzing, and creating maps that tell a story through data and design principles. Students will learn to utilize popular map-making platforms for creating graphics that illustrate spatial relationships which can be used as a vehicle for advocacy, marketing, and various creative endeavors.
Tools, QGIS, Carto, Tableau, ArcGIS, R, Javascript, Python
How to Register
Enrolling in one of PCA&D’s Certificate Programs is simple. Confirm your intent to pursue one of our certificates by filling out an application.
If you have any questions regarding mapping out a plan, upcoming class schedules, or completing your certificate, please contact Bonnie Kern, our Admissions Transfer & Outreach Coordinator, at 717.396.7833 ext 1014 or email bkern@pcad.edu.
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